October 5th, 2014 The Streak Continues: 309
I have now received all of four DPP 4.0 RAW Conversion Guide manuscripts from the reviewers via e-mail and will began incorporating the suggestions yesterday. I will ship the revised ms off to Arash so that he can create the PDF as soon as my work is done. I enjoyed an easy 1/2 mile swim yesterday and four great MLB playoff games. This blog post, the 309th in a row, took me exactly 1 hour, 54 minutes and 11.9 seconds to prepare, all of the work done on Sunday morning. It was published just before 7:00am from my home in Indian Lake Estates, FL.
To show your appreciation for my efforts here, we do ask that you use our the B&H and Amazon affiliate links on the right side of the blog for all of your purchases. Please check the availability of all photographic accessories in the BIRDS AS ART Online Store, especially Gitzo tripods, Wimberley tripod heads, and the like. We sell only what I have used, have tested, and can depend on. We will not sell you junk. We know what you need to make creating great images easy and fun. And we are always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail.
Scroll down in this blog post to learn about the $200 Last Minute Registration Discount offer for the Fort DeSoto IPT. Join us and you just might get a chance to try out a 7D II for a few minutes…..
Wow!
Right after publishing this blog post I stepped out onto the pool deck to barbecue my breakfast of chicken and Brussels sprouts and was shocked by how cold it was: 59 chilly degrees. I had heard that a front was coming through last night. The pool had already been down below 78 degrees. Yikes for today’s swim!
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This image was created at Fort DeSoto Park in 2009 with the hand held Canon EF 400mm f/4 DO IS USM lens and the (long ago) EOS-50D soon to be replaced by the Canon EOS 7D Mark II. ISO 500. Evaluative metering -1/3 stop: 1/6400 sec. at f/6.3 in Av mode. (Note: this is the equivalent of 1/3 stop darker than my standard, oft-recommended sunny/ISO 400 exposure for SUPER bright WHITEs: 1/2500 sec. at f/8)
9-Point AI Servo shutter button AF. Talk about the old days!
Image #1: 9:13.50am
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Your Mission
Your mission here, should you decide to accept it, is to let us know which of today’s six images you would keep, which you would delete, and why. As always, should you or any of your BAA Force be caught or killed, Arthur Morris will disavow any knowledge of your actions. This blog post will will self-destruct in ten seconds. Good luck.
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This image was created at Fort DeSoto Park in 2009 with the hand held Canon EF 400mm f/4 DO IS USM lens and the (long ago) EOS-50D soon to be replaced by the Canon EOS 7D Mark II. ISO 400. Evaluative metering -1/3 stop: 1/3200 sec. at f/8 in Av mode. (Note: this is the equivalent of 1/3 stop darker than my standard, oft-recommended sunny/ISO 400 exposure for SUPER bright WHITEs: 1/2500 sec. at f/8)
9-Point AI Servo shutter button AF. Talk about the old days!
Image #2: 9:14.07am
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Sitting Down on the Job
For images #1-#4 I was using my knee-pod: I was seated resting my left forearm on my left knee to stabilize the lens. Learn more about knee-podding here. And learn why you need to be in active AI Servo AF when hand holding in the “Best Ever Hand Holding Tip” blog post here.
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This image was created at Fort DeSoto Park in 2009 with the hand held Canon EF 400mm f/4 DO IS USM lens and the (long ago) EOS-50D soon to be replaced by the Canon EOS 7D Mark II. ISO 400. Evaluative metering -1/3 stop: 1/3200 sec. at f/8 in Av mode. (Note: this is the equivalent of 1/3 stop darker than my standard, oft-recommended sunny/ISO 400 exposure for SUPER bright WHITEs: 1/2500 sec. at f/8)
9-Point AI Servo shutter button AF. Talk about the old days!
Image #3: 9:14.20am
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Photographing Preening Birds
When photographing preening birds it is almost always best to strive to press the shutter button when the eye is clearly visible and when the bird’s head is pretty much parallel to the imaging sensor, i.e., to the back of the camera.
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This image was created at Fort DeSoto Park in 2009 with the hand held Canon EF 400mm f/4 DO IS USM lens and the (long ago) EOS-50D soon to be replaced by the Canon EOS 7D Mark II. ISO 400. Evaluative metering -1/3 stop: 1/3200 sec. at f/8 in Av mode. (Note: this is the equivalent of 1/3 stop darker than my standard, oft-recommended sunny/ISO 400 exposure for SUPER bright WHITEs: 1/2500 sec. at f/8)
9-Point AI Servo shutter button AF. Talk about the old days!
Image #4: 9:14.33am
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Coming Soon…
The thought of hand holding either a 400 f4 IS DO or a 300mm f/2.8L IS lens with the new 7D II and its 1.6 crop factor is intriguing. Some folks believe that the crop factor is an illusion, others like me believe that it is a plus for many folks. In that group you can include all the folks who have made good images with the EOS-40D, the EOS-50D, and more recently, the EOS-7D.
Here, unedited, is a comment left by Jim Magowan at one of the many 7D II-related blog posts here. Jim is obviously on the other side of the fence. My response, in green, is included.
Art,
You mention being able to use lighter lenses with the 7D II due to the crop factor. I have read much the same idea about the crop factor from other well known photographers. My first Canon (a 20D) had an 8 mp sensor. I believe the full frame model below the 1Ds was the 1D; whatever it was, when I calculated the pixel density (pixels per sq mm) for the two cameras it was identical. If images were shot with the same focal length lens from the same location (or distance) the 1D image, if cropped to show the same part of the image as the 20D image had the same number of pixels (resolution) as the 20D image. If all other things (pixel size or quality, etc.,) are equal this means that you could shoot the full frame image and if you want to get the 1.6 ‘magnification’ of the aps-c sensor just crop the image in Photoshop.
Of course, the sensors in the full frame cameras are supposed to be better so actually you got a better image using the full frame camera and cropping in PS. In short, if the pixels in the full frame camera are of equal or better quality to the aps-c pixels, image-wise, shooting full frame is like shooting with both cameras.
The ‘magnification’ of the aps-c sensor has nothing to do with the sensor, it is a function of the way the images are displayed and printed. The aps-c image is ‘blown up to fill the same area on the screen as the full frame image.
The advantages of the 1.6 crop factor do not include being able to work with shorter lenses unless you simply prefer to crop with the camera rather than PS. There is an advantage in being able to use lenses specifically designed for the 1.6 bodies in that they can be made smaller and lighter for the same focal length and speed because they do not have to project as large an image onto the sensor (not as much glass, etc.). When a full frame lens is used on a 1.6 body much of the image does not hit the sensor.
The question I would ask is how a 1.6 crop of an image from the 1Dx compares with the image from the 7D II? I would love to see the result if you were to shoot from the same location with the same lens on the 1Dx and the 7DII and print the 7DII image and the 1Dx crop at successively greater enlargements to compare image quality.
The advantages of the 1.6 bodies are:
1. They are (more) affordable for people like me than the full frame bodies.
2. You can leave the dual battery holder off to save weight and bulk, if desired.
3. 1.6 specific lenses can be lighter and cheaper than the equivalent full frame lenses.
4. The bodies can be more compact and lighter because components such as mirrors and sensors are smaller.
5. They usually have a built in flash which is often better than no flash.
6. On the 7D (and I assume the II)you can turn off the on camera flash, but still trigger off camera Speedlights with it.
The image magnification, however, is a myth. If I shoot a bird with my 7D (or maybe someday with a 7DII) from the same place as you shoot the same bird with your 1Dx, using the same lens (focal length) and you crop your image to match my 1.6 image your cropped image can be blown up far more than my 1.6 image because your 1Dx has ‘better’ pixels (or so they tell me).
Hi James, Thanks for sharing your thoughts and the info above. I have long tried to stay out of discussions on this topic as I really do not understand the concept very well, I am not very good at pixel math, and I feel that the arguments are in large part semantic in nature….
Lastly, seeing the image larger in the frame and larger on the LCD viewing screen gives many folks added confidence….
That said I will try to remember to shoot some side by side images with all three cameras when I get my hands on a 7D II. I will likely need a sleeping bird.
best and respectfully, artie
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This image was created at Fort DeSoto Park in 2009 with the hand held Canon EF 400mm f/4 DO IS USM lens and the (long ago) EOS-50D soon to be replaced by the Canon EOS 7D Mark II. ISO 400. Evaluative metering -1/3 stop: 1/2500 sec. at f/8 in Av mode. (Note: this is the equivalent of my standard, oft-recommended sunny/ISO 400 exposure for SUPER bright WHITEs: 1/2500 sec. at f/8)
9-Point AI Servo shutter button AF. Talk about the old days!
Image #5: 9:14.52am
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Today’s Featured Lens
Used Canon EF 400mm f/4 IS DO UMS Lens
Multiple IPT veteran Shelly Goldstein is giving away a Canon EF 400mm f/4 IS DO UMS lens in very good + condition for a ridiculously low $4100. The lens has been protected by a LensCoat since day one thus there are only a few small blemishes on the tripod collar. There are several extras. The sale includes a Really Right Stuff quick release lens plate (MAPR-1b), a LensCoat, the original lens trunk, the original leather front lens cover, the rear dust cap, and insured shipping via Fed Ex Ground to US addresses only. The lens was cleaned and checked by Canon in September 2014.
You can contact Shelly via e-mail or by phone at 646-423-0392 (EST). Your lens will be shipped only after your check clears.
I owned and used and loved my 400 DO for about five years. If you missed my comments on this lightweight–hand holdable for most–telephoto lens (and 14 great images) please see this blog post: The Canon 400mm f/4 IS DO Lens: Fourteen Images that Prove that the Internet Experts are (As Usual) Idiots.
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This image was created at Fort DeSoto Park in 2009 with the hand held Canon EF 400mm f/4 DO IS USM lens and the (long ago) EOS-50D soon to be replaced by the Canon EOS 7D Mark II. ISO 400. Evaluative metering -1/3 stop: 1/2500 sec. at f/8 in Av mode. (Note: this is the equivalent my standard, oft-recommended sunny/ISO 400 exposure for SUPER bright WHITEs: 1/2500 sec. at f/8)
9-Point AI Servo shutter button AF. Talk about the old days!
Image #6: 9:16:23am
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Lying Down on the Job
For images #5 & 6, I was lying down on the wet sand. Note the lower perspective in both images. And note the tilted horizon in Image #5; it is harder to create level images when hand holding and lying down than when hand holding and sitting down or standing. When on a tripod it only takes a second to check the electronic level on the rear LCD.
The new 7D II will be the first Canon dSLR to offer an optional electronic level in the viewfinder. This will be a boon to hand holders.
Most interesting is to compare the two portraits, image #4 and image #6. Feel free to comment if you wish….
ID Quiz
What species? If you own a field guide, take a peek. It does not get any easier than this.
Use the BAA Affiliate logo link above to pre-order your 7D II, shoot me your receipt via e-mail, and I will do my very best to have your order expedited once the camera begins shipping.
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Fort DeSoto in fall is rich with tame birds. All of the images in this card were created at Fort DeSoto in either late September or early October. I hope that you can join me there this October. Click on the composite to enjoy a larger version.
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First-ever BIRDS AS ART In-the-Field/Meetup Workshop Session (ITF/MWS): $50
Join me on the afternoon of October 10, 2014 for 3-hours of photographic instruction at Fort DeSoto Park. Beginners are welcome. Lenses of 300mm or longer are recommended but even those with 70-200s should get to make some nice images. Teleconverters are always a plus.
You will learn the basics of digital exposure and image design, autofocus basics, and how to get close to free and wild birds. We should get to photograph a variety of wading birds, shorebirds, terns, and gulls. This inexpensive afternoon workshop is designed to give folks a taste of the level and the quality of instruction that is provided on BIRDS AS ART Instructional Photo-tours. I hope to meet you there.
To register please call Jim or Jennifer during weekday business hours with a credit card in hand to pay the nominal registration fee. Your registration fee is non-refundable. You will receive a short e-mail with instructions, gear advice, and meeting place at least two weeks before the event.
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Obviously folks attending the IPT will be out in the field early and stay late to take advantage of sunrise and sunset colors. The good news is that the days are relatively short in October. Click on the composite to enjoy a larger version.
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Fort DeSoto Fall IPT/October 11-13, 2014. 3 FULL DAYs: $1099. Limit 8/Openings: 5.
$200 Last Minute Registration Discount!
Fort DeSoto, located just south of St. Petersburg, FL, is a mecca for migrant shorebirds in fall. There they join hundreds of egrets, herons, night-herons, gulls, and terns who winter on the T-shaped peninsula that serves as their wintering grounds. With any luck, we should get to photograph two of Florida’s most desirable shorebird species: Marbled Godwit and the spectacular Long-billed Curlew. Black-bellied Plover and Willet are easy, American Oystercatcher likely. Great Egret, Snowy Egret, Great Blue Heron, and Tricolored Heron are easy as well and we will almost surely come up with a tame Yellow-crowned Night-Heron or two. We should get to do some Brown Pelican flight photography. And Royal, Sandwich, Forster’s, and Caspian Terns will likely provide us with some good flight opportunities as well. Though not guaranteed Roseate Spoonbill and Wood Stork would not be unexpected.
Folks who sign up for the IPT are welcome to join us on the ITF/MWS on Friday afternoon as my guest. See above for details on that.
On the IPT you will learn basics and fine points of digital exposure and to get the right exposure every time after making a single test exposure, how to approach free and wild birds without disturbing them, to understand and predict bird behavior, to identify many species of shorebirds, to spot the good situations, to choose the best perspective, to see and understand the light, to, and to design pleasing images by mastering your camera’s AF system. And you will learn learn how and why to work in Manual mode (even if you’re scared of it).
At lunch (included) we will review my images–folks learn a ton watching me edit–why keep this one and delete that one. If you opt to bring your laptop, we will take a look at five of your best images from the morning session. We will process a few of my images in Photoshop after converting them in DPP. That followed by Instructor Nap Time.
If you decide to register and are traveling to attend this IPT, please make your reservations at the Beachcomber Beach Resort, 6200 Gulf Blvd, St. Petersburg (St. Pete Beach), FL 33706 (727-367-1902) as soon as possible as rooms for the weekend days are scarce: ARR: 10 OCT/DEP 14 OCT. I stayed there on my last DeSoto visit and was quite happy with it. Lodging is tough in Florida at this season…. The best airport is Tampa (TPA). It is always best if IPT folks stay in the same hotel so if you are interested it would be a good idea to register now and make your hotel reservations as well. We can, however, coordinate easily with local folks who opt to stay at home either by cell phone or e-mail.
Because of the relatively late date, payment is full is due upon registration either by check or credit card. If the former, please e-mail us immediately so that we can save you a spot. If the latter, please call Jim or Jennifer during weekday business hours at 863-692-0906 with a credit card in hand to register . Your registration fee is non-refundable unless the IPT sells out with eight so please check your plans carefully before committing. You will receive a confirmation e-mail with detailed instructions, gear advice, and first morning meeting place about one month before this IPT.
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BAA Site Guides are the next best thing to being on an IPT.
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Fort DeSoto Site Guide
Can’t make the IPT? Get yourself a copy of the Fort DeSoto Site Guide. Learn the best spots, where to be when in what season in what weather. Learn the best wind directions for the various locations. BAA Site Guides are the next best thing to being on an IPT. You can see all of them here.
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Typos
In all blog posts and Bulletins, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos, wrong words, misspellings, omissions, or grammatical errors. Just be right. 🙂
October 4th, 2014 The Streak Continues: 308
I have now received all of four DPP 4.0 RAW Conversion Guide manuscripts from the reviewers via e-mail and will begin the fifth and final edit this morning. I will ship the revised ms off to Arash so that he can create the PDF as soon as my work is done. I enjoyed another easy 2/3 mile swim yesterday. It began in warm, bright sun, continued in pelting rain, and ended with more sun. As there was no thunder or lightning I swam through the whole thing. The rain began just as I finished a lap and as I turned, the rain hitting the small metal roof above the pool deck near the hose sounded like a jet plane taking off. To say that it took me by surprise is a big understatement. This blog post, the 308th in a row, took me about 3 hours to prepare. It was published just before 6:30am from my home in Indian Lake Estates, FL.
To show your appreciation for my efforts here, we do ask that you use our the B&H and Amazon affiliate links on the right side of the blog for all of your purchases. Please check the availability of all photographic accessories in the BIRDS AS ART Online Store, especially Gitzo tripods, Wimberley tripod heads, and the like. We sell only what I used, tested, and can depend on. We will not sell you junk. We know what you need to make creating great images easy and fun. And we are always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail.
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Image courtesy of and copyright: Jack Panzeca/27 Birds
Image #1: Sandhill Cranes, Bosque del Apache NWR, San Antonio, NM
This image, created on a rare foggy morning at Bosque, was awarded first place in the 2013 Festival of the Cranes Photography Contest last year and is the first page of this year’s Festival brochure. Mazel tov to Jack!
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Jack Panzeca
Jack began taking pictures in the early 1950s with his first camera, a Brownie Hawkeye. In the ’70s and ’80s, his subjects shifted to concerts and race cars. He took a decade off from photography with the invention of the home computer. He made a return to photography after the advent of digital cameras. He continues to further his education by attending professional photography workshops, and seminars. His current photography interest is nature. Birds are his first love, but more recently he is concentrating on landscapes, flowers, and other types of macro photography. In real life he is an active businessman working around the world.
Jack attended many IPTs nearly a decade ago and I see him most years at Bosque. As you can see by the quality of his images here, he is quite a skilled photographer. I am quite proud of what he has accomplished in photography. You can see more of Jack’s images here. Though he mentioned that he has not updated his website “in five years” there are lots of great images in the various galleries. With his interest shifting more to scenic and macro photography, Jack is selling a ton of great gear; all is priced to sell instantly. Have at it! Note: Jack is not in financial distress–he is pretty much retired from a great career building movie theaters; he is just shifting photography gears :).
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Image courtesy of and copyright: Jack Panzeca/27 Birds
Image #2: Sandhill Crane Sunset Silheoutte, Bosque del Apache NWR, San Antonio, NM
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Used Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM Lens
Sold!
Multiple IPT veteran Jack Panzeca is literally giving away a used Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lens in mint condition for only $10,199. (Used only once. This one should sell instantly. The sale includes the original box and everything that came in it, the rear lens cap, the protective front hood, a Really Right Stuff low foot (not installed), and insured shipping via UPS Ground to US addresses only. Your gear will be shipped only after your check clears.
Please contact Jack via e-mail or by phone at 817 819 1756. Central Time Zone.
The new 600 is just a shade heavier than the old 500, is incredibly sharp, and kills with both teleconverters yeilding focal lengths of 600mm, 840mm, and 1200mm with a full frame camera body. In short, it is the world’s premier super-telephoto lens. At 8.65 pounds it is hand holdable by many folks not including me. (Actually, I can hand hold if for flight for a very few minutes and can easily hand hold it while sitting on my butt. In comparison, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 600mm f/4G ED VR AF lens weighs in at a hefty 11.16 pounds…. I own a 600 II and use it regularly. Even after the recent price drop the lens sells new for $11,999.00 at B&H as here.
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Image courtesy of and copyright: Jack Panzeca/27 Birds
Image #3: Crane Pool Sunset, Bosque del Apache NWR, San Antonio, NM
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Used Canon EOS-5D Mark III Digital Camera Body
Sold!
Multiple IPT veteran Jack Panzeca is offering a used Canon EOS-5D Mark III Digital camera body in excellent+ condition for only $2,199.00. In short, a steal. There are no marks or blemishes on the body. The sale includes the original box and everything that came in it, most of that never unwrapped. Display protectors are installed.
Please contact Jack via e-mail or by phone at 817 819 1756. Central Time Zone.
Both Denise and I love our 5D Mark IIIs for flowers and scenics. And I have used it often for both bird portraits and for birds in flight and in action. It is a lighter 1D X with a bit slower frame rate and a very much lower price tag. It offers in-camera HDR and in-camera Multiple Exposures. The 5D III sells new at B&H for $3399.00. As here. Save $1200 and shoot Jack an e-mail immediately. Please remember: Central Time Zone.
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Image courtesy of and copyright: Jack Panzeca/27 Birds
Image #4: Cecropia Moth
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Used Canon EF 100-400 f 4.5-5.6 L IS Lens
Multiple IPT veteran Jack Panzeca is offering a used Canon EF 100-400 f 4.5-5.6 L IS lens in very good + condition for $999 including insured shipping via UPS Ground to US addresses only. The tripod collar has one small scratch. The sale includes the original tough fabric case, the original box, the front and rear caps, the lens hood, and the strap. Your gear will be shipped only after your check clears.
Please contact Jack via e-mail or by phone at 817 819 1756. Central Time Zone.
The 100-400 is a versatile intermediate telephoto zoom lens with 1,000+ uses. It makes a great starter lens especially for folks who do general nature and wildlife in addition to birds. I’ve sold 100s of images made with a 1-4 and denise loved hers for many years forsaking it only recently for the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens. Jack’s 100-400 is priced to sell.
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Image courtesy of and copyright: Jack Panzeca/27 Birds
Image #5: Slot Canyon, AZ
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Used Canon MT-24 EX Twin Lite Flash
Sold!
Multiple IPT veteran Jack Panzeca is offering a used Canon MT-24 EX Twin Lite Flash in excellent+ condition for $449.00. The sale includes the original box, the case, the manual, and the Sto-Fen OM-24XSET Omni-Bounce Set that is made specifically for the MT-24EX Twin Lite Flash. The latter is a $22.95 value. The cost of insured shipping via UPS Ground to US addresses only is also included.
Please contact Jack via e-mail or by phone at 817 819 1756. Central Time Zone.
The MT-24EX is a twin-flash set-up (similar to a ringflash) for the EOS system that has every feature and capability imaginable. Employing Canon’s E-TTL, it takes full advantage of the flash performance of the EOS-1V, EOS-3, and other E-TTL supported cameras by allowing for shutter speeds above the normal sync range. Twin flashes fire at even power, or can be varied over an eight-stop range for dramatic directional lighting that emphasizes the relief of the subject. The controller unit has an illuminated, informative LCD panel. Accepts optional hi-capacity battery packs.
This neat little flash attaches directly to the EF 50mm f/2.5 Compact Macro, EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro (non-IS version), and MP-E 65mm Macrophoto lenses. With the EF 180mm f/3.5L Macro USM lens it requires the Macrolite Adapter 72C ($29.95). With the EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM lens you need the Macrolite Adapter 67 ($32.00). It can be used with off-brand macro lenses with the use of the correctly sized Macrolite adapter.
I own and use everything above but the Sto-Fen diffuser set for some of my flower photography. It would be great for bugs too. The flash alone sells new for $769.00.
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Image courtesy of and copyright: Jack Panzeca/27 Birds
Image #6: Tree Silhouette, Everglades National Park, FL
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Series II Teleconverters
Both sold!
Jack is also offering a used Canon EF 1.4X II teleconverter in excellent condition for $169.00 and a used 2X II teleconverter in very good+ condition for $189.00. The latter shows slight wear on the finish. Both include the original box, the case, and insured shipping via UPS Ground to US addresses only.
Please contact Jack via e-mail or by phone at 817 819 1756. Central Time Zone.
As teleconverters are integral components of my gear bag I own four 1.4X III and three 2X III TCs. On big trips I travel with three of the former and two of the latter.
Thanks!
Thanks a stack to Jack for sharing his wonderful images with us here.
Your Favorite?
Please take a moment to let us know which of Jack’s six images is your favorite. And why.
More Used Gear
You can always see the complete list of currently available used photography gear by clicking on the link on the second yellow tool bar at the top of each blog page. Or, you can click here.
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Be like Jack! Get your butt on a plane and take advantage of some downright great instruction! Please click on the card to enjoy a larger version.
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Affordable Bosque Educational Opportunities
I will be at Bosque this year for nearly a month. There are a host of affordable educational opportunities on the slate in conjunction with the Festival of the Cranes. There are four early morning in-the-field photography workshops, Thursday through Sunday, NOV 20-23, 2014. Thursday is sold out, there is some room on the Friday and Sunday sessions, and, at last count, lots of room on the Saturday workshop. Denise and I are co-leading.
Festival of the Cranes Early Morning Photography In-the-Field Workshops
Festival of the Cranes Early Morning In-the-Field Photography Workshops: 5:50-10:30am. Limit 16. NOV 20/21/22 & 23: $125/session. Please click here to register. Thursday morning is sold out.
Join full time professional photographers Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART and Denise Ippolito/A Creative Adventure for four 1/2 hours of fun and learning at the refuge. You will learn how to create pleasingly blurred images in the low predawn light, to spot the good situations, to understand the effects of wind speed and direction on bird (especially in flight) photography, to photograph individual cranes in flight, to see and understand the light, to get the right exposure every time after making a single test exposure, and to design pleasing images. In addition you will learn and live Artie’s early morning Bosque del Apache strategies, strategies based on over two decades of experience at the refuge. This is a caravan event and a refuge pass will be provided. Dress with layers for warmth and bring snacks and plenty of water. Workshop leaves sharply at 6:00 AM. This workshop is being offered on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Combining one or more all of the Early Morning Photography In-the-Field Workshops immediately above with the Bosque del Apache 2014 A Creative Adventure/BIRDS AS ART “Creative Photography Instructional Photo-Tour” (IPT) below and/or the Bosque del Apache Photography Two-Part Seminar (scroll down for details) is a fabulous and economical way to maximize your educational and photographic opportunities on a 2014 Bosque visit. Why not take advantage of these great relatively inexpensive events and learn from two of the world’s most talented, most creative, most caring, and most respected photographic educators, educators with a combined 26 years of Bosque experience?
Bosque Photography Seminar
We are offering a two part afternoon seminar on Thursday afternoon, NOV 20 from 2-4:30pm as follows:
Part I: Bosque del Apache Photography Basics
Artie and Denise will cover the basics of lens selection, tripod and head selection, image design, getting the right exposure, autofocus options, and the relationship between light direction and wind direction, and will give an overview of the best photographic opportunities at the refuge.
Part II: Creative Photography at Bosque del Apache
Artie and Denise will teach you to think outside the box when photographing at Bosque del Apache. You will learn to create a variety of pleasingly blurred images by using slow shutter speeds, by photographing moving subjects, by zooming during the exposure, and by panning with the lens during the exposure. They will teach you to take advantage of spectacular lighting and weather conditions. They will also cover post processing creative techniques. Limit 50.
On Friday afternoon from 1:00 to 3:00pm I will, as below, be presenting a free slide program entitled “A 20-Year Love Affair With Bosque.”
Click here to register for any of the open events above.
“Love Affair with Bosque.” Sponsored by Canon. Friday, NOV 21, 2014; 1:00 to 2:40pm. Free, at the Bodega Restaurant, Socorro.
A slide program by Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART. Limit 200. Please see the important registration information below.
Arthur Morris first visited Bosque del Apache Refuge in December, 1992 while on sabbatical with his late-wife Elaine While leading his first Bosque del Apache photographic workshop in December, 1994, quite soon after Elaine’s death, he created two iconic Bosque images. His “Blizzard in Blue” was honored in the prestigious 1998 BBC Wildlife Photographer of the Year Competition. “Fire in the Mist” was similarly honored in the 2001 BBC competition and soon thereafter was featured as wrap-around cover art on the coffee table book, Life on the Earth, a celebration of 30 years of the best images from the Wildlife Photographer of the Year Competitions. Those two images laid the foundation for his more than two decade love affair with the refuge. He has returned every year since then at the Thanksgiving season while leading BIRDS AS ART Instructional Photo-Tours. In addition, he has two February visits along with two September visits, the latter visits in conjunction with the Bosque del Apache Open Windows Volunteer Program that he founded. Join us for Artie’s photographic celebration of his “Love Affair with Bosque.”
Even though this is free event, you need to click here to register.
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Join Denise Ippolito and Arthur Morris for two great days of photography, fun, and learning at one of our favorite soul places. We will surely be taking you out of the box on this workshop. Please click on the card to enjoy a larger version.
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Bosque del Apache 2014 A Creative Adventure/BIRDS AS ART “Creative Photography Instructional Photo-Tour.” (IPT). NOV 24-25, 2014. 2-FULL DAYS: $729. Leaders: Denise Ippolito & Arthur Morris. Introductory Slide program: 7:00pm on Sunday 11/23.
Important Note
While the 4-DAY Bosque IPT has been sold out for some time, there is still room on the 2-DAY Bosque Creative IPT as detailed here.
Do understand that though we will cover a variety of creative techniques and photograph a variety of subjects, when conditions are perfect for traditional bird photography that is exactly what we will be doing.
Get Out of Your Box!
The Creative Bosque IPT is perfect for folks who want to learn to think outside the box, to create new and different images. This workshop is the perfect add-on for folks who are planning on attending the Festival of the Cranes. Learn to unleash your creative juices at the wondrous Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge in San Antonio, New Mexico with two great leaders including the amazingly talented and creative Denise Ippolito. In-the-field instruction will include tips on gear set-up, on creating a variety of pleasing blurs, on getting the right exposure, and on designing pleasing images. And lots more. From vertical pan blurs to subject motion blurs to zoom blurs to multiple exposures we will cover it all. If conditions are perfect, we will not hesitate to take advantage of them to do some traditional bird photography. This workshop will include an inspirational introductory slide program on Sunday evening, 11/23, after dinner on your own, two morning and two afternoon photography sessions, all lunches, a digital workflow and Photoshop session after lunch on Monday, and an image critiquing session after lunch on Tuesday.
A $329 non-refundable deposit is required to hold your slot for this IPT. Your balance, payable only by check, will be due on 7/25/2014. If the trip fills, we will be glad to apply a credit applicable to a future IPT for the full amount less a $100 processing fee. If we do not receive your check for the balance on or before the due date we will try to fill your spot from the waiting list. If your spot is filled, you will lose your deposit. If not, you can secure your spot by paying your balance.
Please print, complete, and sign the form that is linked to here and shoot it to us along with your deposit check (made out to “Arthur Morris.”) You can also leave your deposit with a credit card by calling the office at 863-692-0906. If you register by phone, please print, complete and sign the form as noted above and either mail it to us or e-mail the scan. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me via e-mail.
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October 3rd, 2014 The Streak Continues: 307
I have now received three of the four DPP 4.0 RAW Conversion Guide manuscripts from the reviewers via e-mail and will begin the fifth and final round of editing this weekend. I will ship the revised ms off to Arash so that he can create the PDF. After arising at 2:15am yesterday (6:05am today:)), a short nap at 9:00 set up the rest of a productive day. I enjoyed an easy 2/3 mile swim yesterday. This blog post, the 307th in a row, took me about 2 1/2 hours to prepare. It was published at about 7:40am from my home in Indian Lake Estates, FL.
To show your appreciation for my efforts here, we do ask that you use our the B&H and Amazon affiliate links on the right side of the blog for all of your purchases. Please check the availability of all photographic accessories in the BIRDS AS ART Online Store, especially Gitzo tripods, Wimberley tripod heads, and the like. We sell only what I used, tested, and can depend on. We will not sell you junk. We know what you need to make creating great images easy and fun. And we are always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail.
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Thanks to EoL’s Steven Inglima for helping me get my hands on a beta version EOS-7D Mark II.
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Getting a 7D Mark II on Monday!
Thanks to Canon USA’s Len Musmeci, Steven Inglima, head of the Canon Explorers of Light program, and good friend and Outdoor Photographer‘s Tech Tips expert George Lepp. Len approved the loan, Steve arranged it, and George is sending me the 7D II that he has been working with by Fed-Ex today. I need to return the camera on Tuesday October 14. Canon folks who are signed up for the Fort DeSoto IPT will be getting a very good look at the new camera.
I will begin sharing 7D II images with you here soon with the following rejoinder: the images were created with a “Beta” camera, not with a final production model.
George Lepp’s Comments on the 7D II
George called BIRDS AS ART yesterday to order a copy of The Art of Flower Photography, the inspiring and instructive new eBook by Denise Ippolito and yours truly. Thinking that he was calling about shipping the 7D II I picked up the phone. He kept saying that he was paying and I kept telling him that he was not. I prevailed in the long run.
I asked George about the quality of the 7D II image files. He said, “You will love the camera and the image quality. The images are quite similar to those from the 5D Mark III.” Then I asked with some trepidation, “What about noise?” George replied, “The same as the 5D III.”
Wow, it is looking as if the 7D II might be a lightweight 1.6 crop factor body with 1D X AF and 5D III image quality and relatively low noise. I can’t wait!
Use the BAA Affiliate logo link above to pre-order your 7D II, shoot me your receipt via e-mail, and I will do my very best to have your order expedited once the camera begins shipping.
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This image was created on the last Japan in Winter with the Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM lens (hand held at 100mm) and the Canon EOS 5D Mark III . ISO 400. Evaluative metering (probably) +2 1/3 stops as framed: 1/1600 sec. at f/5.6 in Manual mode.
Image copyright 2013: Denise Ippolito/A Creative Adventure
Denise mentioned on the phone last night that at times she really misses her 1-4…. See a new used 100-400 for sale below.
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This Could Be You
Having Paul McKenzie aboard as a third leader is a huge plus as he knows the Whooper Swam locations better than anyone. I will share a misty morning image with you here soon. Scroll down just a bit here for info on the 2016 Japan in Winter IPT.
Image Question
#1: Denise climbed a small hill to create this image. WhY?
#2: Denise set the exposure so that there were a few blinkies on the snow and the brightest clouds. Why?
Selling Your Used Photo Gear Through BIRDS AS ART
Selling your used (or like-new) photo gear through the BAA Blog or via a BAA Online Bulletin is a great idea. We charge only a 5% commission. One of the more popular used gear for sale sites charges a minimum of 20% plus assorted fees! Yikes. The minimum item price here is $500 (or less for a $25 fee). If you are interested please e-mail with the words Items for Sale Info Request cut and pasted into the Subject line :). Stuff that is priced fairly–I offer free pricing advice, usually sells in no time flat. In the past few months, we have sold just about everything in sight. Click here to see all the current listings. Note: Bruce Boswell’s 100-400 sold yesterday for $999 plus the shipping….
Brand New Listing
Used Canon EF 100-400 f 4.5-5.6 L IS Lens
Multiple IPT veteran Jack Panzeca is offering a used Canon EF 100-400 f 4.5-5.6 L IS lens in very good + condition for $999 including insured shipping via UPS Ground to US addresses only. The tripod collar has one small scratch. The sale includes the original tough fabric case, the original box, the front and rear caps, the lens hood, and the strap. Your gear will be shipped only after your check clears.
Please contact Jack via e-mail or by phone at 817 819 1756. Central Time Zone.
The 100-400 is a versatile intermediate telephoto zoom lens with 1,000+ uses. It makes a great starter lens especially for folks who do general nature and wildlife in addition to birds. I’ve sold 100s of images made with a 1-4 and denise loved hers for many years forsaking it only recently for the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens. Jack’s 100-400 is priced to sell.
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Consider joining us in Japan in February, 2016; the world’s best Japan in Winter workshop. Click on the card to enjoy the spectacular larger version.
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Japan In Winter IPT. February 9-24, 2016: $13,999/double occupancy. Limit 7: Openings: 4.
Needs five to run; just 2 more to go. All lodging including Tokyo hotel on 9 FEB, all breakfasts & dinners, ground transport and transfers including bus to the monkey park hotel, and all entrance fees and in-country flights are included. Not included: international flights, all lunches–most are on the run, and alcoholic beverages.
This trip is one day longer than the 2014 trip to allow for more flexibility, more time with the cranes, and most importantly, more time for landscape photography. Hokkaido is gorgeous. Three great leaders plus the world’s best Japan in winter Japanese photography guide: the amazingly creative Denise Ippolito, multiple award winning photographer Paul McKenzie and yours truly. Tons of trip planning and gear advice, in-the-field instruction and guidance, at-the-lodge Photoshop and image review sessions in addition to short introductory slide programs for each of the amazing locations.
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Amazing subjects. Beautiful settings. Nonstop action and unlimited opportunities. Join us.
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Arrive Tokyo: 9 FEB 2016 the latest. 8 FEB is safer and gives you a day to get acclimated to the time change. Your hotel room for the night of the 9th is covered.
Travel to Monkey Park Hotel: 10 FEB: Short 1/2 DAY of Monkey photography possible depending on our travel time….
Full Day snow monkeys: FEB 11.
Full Day snow monkeys: FEB 12.
13 FEB: Full travel day to Hokkaido/arrive at our lodge in the late afternoon. The lodge is wonderful. All the rooms at the lodge have beds. Bring your warm pajamas. Local onsen (hot springs bath and tubs) is available for $5 each day before dinner–when you are cold, it is the best thing since sliced bread. Smile emoticon The home cooked meals at the lodge are to die for.
FEB 14-23: Red-crowned Crane, raptors in flight, Whooper Swans, and scenic photography. Ural Owl possible. One 2-night trip to Rausu for Steller’s and White Tailed Sea Eagles on the tourists boats dependent on sea ice conditions. Only our trip offers complete flexibility in this area. It saved us this year. One afternoon of duck photography in the harbor is a strong possibility in Rausu. 2-3 boat trips. In addition, few if any tours offer at least one afternoon boat trip….
Lodging notes: bring your long johns for sleeping in the lodge. In Rausu and the snow monkey park, the hotel the rooms are Japanese-style. You sleep on comfortable mats on the floor. Wi-fi is available every day of the trip.
FEB 24. Fly back to Tokyo for transfer to your airport if you are flying home that night, or, to your hotel if you are overnighting. If you need that room it is on you.
To save your spot, please send your $5,000 non-refundable deposit check made out to “Arthur Morris to Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART, PO Box 7245, Indian Lake Estates, FL 33855. We do hope that you can join us for this trip of a lifetime. Do e-mail
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Life is short. Hop on the merry-go-round.
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